Savory Beef and Spinach Bake, often called Spinach Fandango, is a hearty and comforting dish that blends flavorful ground beef, healthy spinach, and creamy cheese. Ideal for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole boasts rich tastes and nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 8 oz fresh button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 – 12 oz packages of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup long-grain white rice, prepared as per the package instructions
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cup milk or cream
- 8 oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the long grain white rice according to the package directions and set aside.
- Thaw the frozen spinach, drain it well, and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Brown the Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the dried oregano.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, cooked rice, and thawed spinach.
- Add the sour cream and mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk or cream over medium heat until it’s warm.
- Gradually add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the beef, rice, and spinach mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the top, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Spinach and Beef Casserole (Spinach Fandango) is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of ground beef, spinach, rice, and creamy cheese makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Easy to prepare and sure to please, this casserole is a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy this comforting dish with your family and friends!